Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature currently requires accessing the site using the built-in Safari browser.
We noticed you are blocking ads. DO THE TON only works with community supporters. Most are active members of the site with small businesses. Please consider disabling your ad blocking tool and checking out the businesses that help keep our site up and free.
Hey y'all! I've been a lurker on this site for a bit, decided to take the next step and actually be somewhat active here. I am new to motorcycles, but have always been a fan of cafe racers. I am in the process of buying a bike but it's been a grueling process of religiously checking craigslist in my area (Central Texas/Fort Hood) in hopes of finding something that I can buy and hopefully start a cafe project (on a budget of course, transitioning out of the military is a... uhm scary? experience lol).
I thank all the members on DTT for their invaluable knowledge and willingness to help! I have one question to ask on here, I am looking at two bikes right now. The first one is a GS550 '79, it runs (but needs carb work) and has only bill of sale the link:
The second bike is a '82 GS750, runs and has title but needs starter fluids and can't idle on it's own, needs new rear tire/fuel line. Can't find the link to this one.
I may be biased, but I say go for the GS750... I've had my '78 GS750E for a little over 9 years and the only time I've been stranded was when the clutch cable broke, it was the original one though and over 30 years old at that point...
smaller bikes make look kool, but like my grandad used to say... there's no replacement for displacement!
Thanks Chillinfellow and MadAZhell, I will be going to see the 750 later on today. If I don't buy it on the spot I will go check out the 550 later on and maybe haggle with the owner.
Welcome to the ton man and thank you for your service ! Think picking a bike is like picking up chics some look great but are way to much work others are OK just need loven ! If its your first build and or bike might be best to start with something in ok to good working order and play with that
Thanks bigkev and dreadrock! Went over and saw the Seca 750 first hand, the guy was trying to start it with some starter fluid and it would start sometimes. I'm gambling and going with the 750 (partly because my lazy arse doesn't want to drive 3hrs north into Texas to see the 550.
The bike is in the decent cosmetic condition (scratches here and there, nothing surprising 30yr old bike. I've already accepted the fact that it wouldn't be turn key and go deal, but it's not really what I was looking for. We'll see what is the problem.
Forgot to mention Im AD Air Force, three years now but soon will probably transition to the AF national guard so I can finish my degree. I want to become a police officer in Austin. You ever need some help just look me up. Should be in Austin by next Fall if everything goes to plan but you know how the military is.
What was your MOS? I have a good buddy in the Army National Guard back in Austin, he just finished a 356. I am a C130 engine specialist, currently in Afghanistan now. Got three months left...Oye the snow sucks.
Dude that would be sweet if you make your way to austin, I was originally going to move there once I ETS-ed but decided to squat in Copperas Cove which is like 45 minutes north of austin. I was a 15W (UAS/Drone Operator). I was up in Mazar E Sharif for my last deployment, sadly we, Americans, were the minority since it was a Nato base lol.
If you need anything special sent out there let me know and I'll make sure to remember to send it out .
Appreciate the suggestions Hoos, this is my first ever bike so it will be nice experience. I know it will something like me tinkering (and possibly figuring out what's wrong), local mechanics/cafe enthusiast, and of course constant DTT searching.
I just ordered the owner manual/maintenance book. We will see how this will be, first thing would be to get her running in a normal state.
...I was expecting a Suzuki! You got yourself an XJ750... I have no experiance with a Yami, but the good news is it has Mikuni's so my original post still holds true!
Still looks like a nice first project bike, I think you done good!
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
